Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · October 21, 2025 · Entertainment

Victoria's Secret Models Face Backlash Over 'Appalling' Fake Tan Trends

Victoria's Secret models including Bella Hadid have been accused of tanning too much to hide their 'white' skin

TAN-GATE: Victoria's Secret Angels Under Fire for 'Fake' Glow

The catwalk queens of Victoria's Secret have been roasted by social media users for their apparently overdone tans, leaving fans and followers alike wondering if they're born with that bronzy glow or just using a lot of self-tanner. In the latest controversy to hit the fashion world, some Twitter users (now known as X) couldn't resist pointing out that this year's crop of models looked like they'd spent hours in the tanning bed.

"Please, girls, for the love of all things natural, stop using so much self-tanner!" pleaded one user, singling out Hungarian beauty Barbara Palvin. "She looks amazing, but I think she'd be even more stunning without that artificial glow."

'I'm once again begging the beautiful women of this world to please put down the self tanner,' one user wrote alongside a photo of Barbara Palvin

But it wasn't just Palvin who got a dose of criticism - Bella Hadid, Gigi Hadid, Candice Swanepoel, and several other Angels were also called out for their seemingly over-tanned complexions. "I don't get why white women feel the need to tan themselves," wrote one frustrated user. "It makes them look older, not younger!"

The backlash was swift and merciless, with some users accusing those who dared to criticize the models' tans of simply being jealous or trying to tear others down. "You're just haters," snapped one Twitter user. "She looks amazing, so stop trying to find fault in her appearance."

But others defended their right to speak out against what they saw as a superficial obsession with fake tan. "It's not about hate, it's about promoting self-acceptance and natural beauty," argued one passionate fan.

Palvin looked lighter at Paris Fashion Week on October 4, making it likely that she got a fake tan ahead of the Victoria's Secret show

The controversy comes as Victoria's Secret tries to revamp its image after a recent shift towards more 'woke' and inclusive messaging. But judging by the reaction on social media, some fans are still holding out for a return to the classic 'glitzy and sensual' vibe of yesteryear - minus the fake tan.

This year's Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which aired live on Amazon Prime Video, was seen as an attempt to recapture that magic. And it seems like the Angels themselves were feeling the pressure to deliver. Bella Hadid made a sizzling entrance in a fiery red bra and lace thong, while her sister Gigi looked stunning in a bubblegum-pink top and high-waisted lace panties.

But what really stole the show was the next generation of models, including Amelia Gray Hamlin (daughter of Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin), Lila Moss (Kate Moss's mini-me), and Iris Law (Jude Law and Sadie Frost's daughter). These young guns brought a fresh energy to the catwalk, flaunting their curves in sizzling looks that left fans gasping.

Candice Swanepoel was one of the most bronzed models to walk the runway this year

Amelia Gray, 24, was one of the standout performers, strutting her stuff in two jaw-dropping ensembles. She started with a bold crystal-encrusted lingerie set before switching to a red-hot backless metallic mini dress that had everyone talking.

Lila Moss, 23, also made a lasting impression in a grey long-sleeved leotard that showcased her toned physique. Meanwhile, Iris Law, 24, made her Victoria's Secret debut in what can only be described as a 'naughty-ish' look - think lacy lingerie and plenty of attitude.

But despite the drama and controversy surrounding this year's show, one thing is clear: these models are pushing boundaries and taking risks on the catwalk. And who knows? Maybe they'll inspire us all to take a closer look at our own beauty routines... or maybe not.

Supermodel Irina Shayk also showed off a glamorous golden tan at the show

Gigi Hadid went for a glowing bronzed look when she strutted her stuff for the lingerie brand